Going to the preventive dentistry can be scary, especially if you’re worried about the cost of care or how much work needs to be done to remedy any issues. As with most things in life, prevention is key! You can prevent many dental health issues by taking good care of your teeth and gums at home. The following are some common preventive dentistry procedures recommended by dentists for patients who want to keep their mouths healthy.
What Are Preventive Dentistry?
Preventive dentistry procedures are those that prevent the development of dental problems. They help you maintain a healthy mouth and keep your teeth strong, white, and cavity free. These include:
- Cleanings (also known as scaling or prophylaxis)
- Fluoride treatments (to strengthen enamel)
- Sealants (a thin plastic coating applied to the chewing surfaces of molars to help protect them from decay)
There are also some medications available over the counter that can be used as part of your daily oral health routine:
- Toothpaste with fluoride, which helps prevent cavities.
- Gum that contains xylitol, a natural sweetener that reduces plaque and prevents tooth decay.
- Chlorhexidine mouthwash, which kills germs in the mouth and stops them from causing bad breath and gum disease.
Brush and Floss Daily
It’s important to brush and floss daily. This will help prevent cavities and gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with fluoride toothpaste.
- Brush for at least 2 minutes, covering all surfaces of your teeth and gums (it’s OK if you don’t get it all in one go).
- Floss daily should be done after brushing so that food debris doesn’t get stuck between your teeth while they are being cleaned by the floss string! Make sure you are using an interdental brush if needed (these come in different sizes), as well as flossing between each tooth! If this sounds like too much work, then consider talking with our office about getting fitted for a mouthguard that protects against sports injuries such as concussions or broken jaws; these guards also help improve pronunciation since they keep the jaw shut firmly when speaking loudly or singing loudly during performances onstage.
Dental Sealants Preventive Dentistry
Dental sealants are a protective coating that is applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth. They can be used on molars and premolars, and they work by preventing tooth decay from occurring in areas where you’re most likely to get cavities.
Dental sealants are applied by a dentist during your regular checkup or cleaning appointment, so there’s no need for any extra appointments or additional cost!
The sealant is a clear plastic coating that can be applied to the chewing surface of your teeth. It will bond to the enamel, protecting it from decay. Dental sealants are especially helpful for children because they prevent cavities from forming on their molars and premolars.
Treatment Can Prevent
Regular dental visits are important for overall health. A dentist can help you avoid many dental issues by performing preventive care on a regular basis. The following are some of the benefits of regular dental visits:
- Preventive dentistry procedures can prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
- Regular cleanings remove plaque from your teeth, which helps to prevent cavities from forming in the first place.
- An oral exam will allow your dentist to identify any signs of periodontal (gum) disease so that treatment can begin early enough so that it does not get worse over time, leading to more serious problems with your mouth and teeth later on down the line!
Dental checkups can help you avoid more serious problems down the line. If a dentist notices early signs of decay or gum disease, they can begin treatment right away. This can often stop these issues from getting worse and developing into something more serious that may require more extensive treatment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important to keep your teeth and gums healthy by practicing preventive dentistry procedures. There are many ways to do this, but the most effective method is by regularly brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day (or more). If you have any questions about whether or not you should be receiving regular dental checkups from your dentist, contact us today!
